Throwing a baseball may look like a task that just involves letting it go as fast as you possibly can, but in reality there is a specific form that should be followed. Using proper mechanics and technique can not only improve your throwing performance, but you can also help to prevent arm injuries.
Arm Motion
The correct baseball throwing form uses a circular motion as you prepare to release the ball. You should begin with your hands together and then as they separate, your throwing hand should take the ball in a semi-circle, down from your chest to your back hip before getting squared back up directly behind you. During the entire motion your elbow should remain bent, always staying close to a 90-degree angle. QCBaseball.com says that your hand should stay on top of the ball as you begin the motion until you get the ball to the high point behind you. During the entire motion, your fingers should stay on top of the ball, and some coaches say you should point the ball directly behind you at the high back point of the motion to increase the speed of your throw.
Front Side
During the throwing motion, your front side is important because it keeps your weight back and adds power to your throw. You want to keep your front side closed as long as possible, making sure to point your non-throwing, shoulder and hip to the target. You should not open up until your upper body is ready and pulls you that way due to the momentum from the throwing motion. QCBaseball.com says that as you step to your target, you will push off and let your arm lead the throw.
Elbow and Shoulder
The position of your elbow and shoulder as you throw is important to maximize the velocity of the throw and to prevent injuries. Your elbow needs to remain high throughout the throwing motion so that it is slightly above the shoulder at the release point, according to former baseball pitcher and current San Francisco Giants Manager Bud Black. An elbow height lower than the shoulder will put more stress on the joint and can lead to injury. By keeping your elbow close to a 90-degree bend, the motion will naturally leave it slightly above your shoulder.
Hand and Wrist
The best way to grip the ball is across the seams in what is known as a four-seam grip, according to QCBaseball.com. You should grip the ball with just the tips of your fingers, keeping it out of the palms because QCBaseball.com notes that gripping in the palm will hurt accuracy and velocity. Keep your hand on top of the ball for as long as you can during the circular motion, and then as you rotate and open to the target it will move behind the ball. QCBaseball.com says that your wrist should not be stiff but instead should be loose, flexible and used as part of the throwing motion.
Member Comments